Five Ways to See the Big Picture

While it's easy to get stuck in the details of our lives, it's important to step back and remind yourself about what is truly important.

Here are 5 ways to see the big picture in your life:

1. Take inventory.

Use an informal tool to take inventory of where you are right now in your life. Check out the free Wheel of Life on my website. It helps you rate yourself in eight areas of your life so you can have a snapshot of how things are going. Remember it's only a picture of a moment in time so it's helpful to use a tool like this a few times a year, or more often if you want.

It's not enough to take the snapshot. You also need to use it to help you move forward. Decide which area you want to give your attention, and then consider one thing you can do to improve this area.

2. Have a reality check.

Often we lose the big picture because we give our attention to stuff that really isn't all that important in the big scheme of things.

Ask yourself: Will this matter significantly one year from now? If the answer is yes, then it deserves your attention. If the answer is no, then let it go and move on.

3. Reconnect in the moment.

If you have lots on your plate it's easy for important things to be overlooked or neglected. When you find yourself swamped, stop and ask yourself: What is the most important thing I need to remember in this moment?

While you still might have a lengthy to-do list, the most important thing might be to lighten up, or hug your kids or let go of a commitment in favour of something else.

4. Do some work.

Sometimes the big picture seems fuzzy because you haven't had enough time to figure it out. Doing some work on your personal mission, vision and values. It will give you greater clarity about what is important and why you are here.

One great resource for doing this is a book by Lance Secretan called Inspire! What Great Leaders Do. It provides a framework for figuring out your destiny, cause and calling.

5. Ask for feedback.

Often it's easy to not be able to see the forest for the trees. Asking someone else for their observations can sometimes help you see things more clearly. Check in with someone you trust to give you candid feedback. Let them know what is important to you and then ask them how you are doing. From their perspective, how well are you walking your talk? Take what information they offer and say thank you. You don't have to defend or debate. Simply use the feedback for reflection on your big picture.